Top 10 green home renovation ideas

By Tilly Kenyon
Insulation4Less examined Google searches to reveal which green home renovation has seen the biggest increase in interest...

Covid-19 has forced all of us to spend the last year at home and this has led to many people turning to DIY and home renovation projects to improve their living spaces. 

These changes, combined with the general that the Brits are, on the whole, becoming more environmentally conscious, has led to an increased interest in eco-homes, and eco-friendly DIY projects. In fact, Google searches for ‘green home renovations’ have seen a 112% increase from March 2020 till March 2021.

Insulation4Less examined Google search volumes between March 2020 and March 2021 to reveal which green home renovation has seen the biggest increase in interest, and is therefore the most desirable in the UK. Take a look at the top 10. 

10: Renewable heating systems...

Renewable heating takes advantage of sources of heat that are based in nature and uses resources that can be replenished and found in most places. There are a range of heating systems available such as biomass boilers and air source heat pumps. A benefit of these systems is that the supply of heat you are using will not cease. 

  • 55 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
09: Water conserving appliances...

Purchasing water-saving taps can be a good way to save on water usage in your kitchen and bathroom, also investing in a water saving showerhead. Some people invest in water diverters which send wastewater straight into your garden, doubling up your water usage. All of these methods can allow you to save on your water bills. 

  • 57 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
08: Triple glazing...

Just adding an extra pane of glass to your window might not sound like it would bring too many benefits, but it could actually make quite a big difference. The additional pane is said to further reduce noise levels and increase the efficiency of your home by not allowing as much heat to escape, therefore reducing energy bills. A downside to triple glazing is that it can be very expensive to install. 

  • 69 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
07: Dual pane windows...

A double-pane window has two panes of glass set into each individual frame and the panes have a small space between them, creating an air pocket made to better insulate your home. This air pocket prevents the temperature of the air outside your home from affecting the temperature of the air inside your home. Another benefit is that they are specifically designed to help stop condensation from forming. 

  • 78 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
06: Skylights...

 Skylights are a great source of natural light and can save you using electricity. They also have advantages such as ventilation, and radiation heat control. 

  • 80 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
05: Wall insulation...

One of the most important factors when it comes to a home’s energy efficiency is insulation, essentially if your insulation is bad then you will be spending more money than you should trying to keep your home warm. Insulation does come with an upfront cost, but the money you will save each year is worth it. 

  • 82 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
04: Using sustainable wood and reclaimed materials...

The construction industry is under increasing pressure to become sustainable, and one way to address this issue is through reclaimed materials. Reusing materials is a great way to stop waste and repurpose them in a new way.

  • 84 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
03: Solar panels...

Solar panels are very beneficial for reducing energy bills and need little maintenance once installed. Despite the UK not being known for its sunshine, there is still about eight hours of light a day that can generate energy. A downside is that not everyone is a fan of how they look, so installing them somewhere visible like the front of a house can impact the value. 

  • 98 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
02: Energy efficient lighting...

Energy efficient lighting is something relatively easy to change and often cheaper than other projects. Swapping light bulbs can decrease energy and heat loss, often saving money. Some people also move their light switch placements to encourage turning the light off as you go by. 

  • 104 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
01: Living walls...

Living walls have become extremely popular during the past year, not only because of their aesthetics, but as they provide a number of different benefits. The plants act as natural air filters which can help purify the air and improve air quality. They also provide the building with an extra layer of insulation, cutting down energy loss, helping keep homes warm in winter and cold in summer. 

  • 115 per cent increase on Google searches UK March 2020-21
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